Jellylike black urn • Plectania melastoma

IdentificationThis small cup- or urn-shaped fungus is black with rusty orange granules dotting the outer surface, especially along the rim. It is initially closed, and is 1-2 cm wide when open. The inner surface is black with a smooth, gelatinous texture. The stem, if present, is 5-10 mm long and thick.

Habitat & RangeThis species is visible in May and June, and can be found growing individually or in clusters on decaying wood and bark from conifers.